Modelling the Formation of Trail Networks by Foraging Ants

This paper studies the role of chemical communication in the formation of trail networks by foraging ants. A cellular automaton model for the motion of the ants is formulated, which assumes that individuals interact according to a simple behavioural algorithm. The ants communicate by depositing trail markers composed of volatile chemicals that serve as attractants for other ants. The ants interact with the network both by following the trails and by extending and reinforcing the trails they follow. By varying the parameters describing these interactions we determine how variations in the behaviour of the individual ants lead to changes in the patterns of trail networks formed by the population. The results indicate that the ability of the group to form trails is inversely related with individual fidelity to trails.